For the first time this century, the New England Patriots are being led by a man not named Bill Belichick, after the former head coach and the team parted ways after 24 seasons.
Now, his coaching responsibilities will fall to Jerod Mayo, who the Patriots hired from their own staff after eight seasons as a linebacker and another five as a positional coach in New England.
Those who have been working under Belichick for a while, like tight end Hunter Henry, are probably adjusting to the new ways of life under Mayo's regime. There are likely a lot of similarities, but by just observing from afar there are a number of differences that can be spotted.
Speaking to the media for the first time this year, Henry shared what's different working in a building run by Mayo than one run by Belichick.
I asked Henry about the difference. He highlighted 3 areas:
— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) April 9, 2024
🏈Jerod Mayo's energy: "He kind of lights up a room."
🏈Mayo's playing experience: "He's been in our seats, literally been where we are."
🏈Mayo's listening: "Just maybe listening to us, you know, is good. I mean he's… https://t.co/qhTYmMvqAC
Energy, experience and listening are three areas that can certainly help a coach relate and work better with today's athletes. Even if Mayo doesn't have the coaching experience that Belichick does, he knows what it's like to put in the work on the field.
